Editor’s note: Following is the third in a series of weekly reports from community experts on domestic abuse, to observe October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

If you’ve watched the local news, you’ve seen it — domestic violence has exploded into the national conversation. Domestic violence has affected professional sports leagues and world-renowned celebrities. While we read these reports that involve athletes and celebrities and we discuss these issues that seem to take place in remote and almost foreign locations, it is important to remember, domestic violence is not just a problem in Baltimore or San Francisco. It is not limited to the rich and famous.

Domestic violence is a Marathon County problem.

At any given time in Marathon County, the District Attorney’s Office is prosecuting about 300 cases of domestic violence. These cases range from misdemeanor crimes, such as disorderly conduct or battery, to felonies, such as strangulation or homicide. The violence alleged in these cases might involve a weapon, the use of fists or feet, or threats of violence. Domestic violence is not limited to a specific age group or culture and can touch any household, regardless of race or income. The common threads that link these crimes are the relationship dynamics and the danger that domestic violence poses to victims.

Because of that danger, conviction for these crimes in Wisconsin can carry significant consequences to an offender. Consequences can include probation and treatment, county jail, or prison for more serious offenses. Each case requires consequences that are tailored to each specific offender. The main goal in each case is to end the cycle of violence that has torn apart a victim’s life. To address domestic violence issues as a community, it is important that we promote awareness.

Awareness and education about these issues in Marathon County is vital, as the danger that the violence in these relationships poses to victims creates a serious risk of lethal consequences to those victims trapped in a web of abuse. Marathon County is fortunate to have outstanding local organizations to assist and educate the victims of abuse, offenders and the general public about the unique dynamics involved in domestic violence. The Women’s Community, based in Wausau, provides resources and education to support and empower victims of domestic violence. For offenders, Peaceful Solutions Counseling has developed treatment specific to the dynamics of an abusive domestic relationship. Our county has been fortunate to receive funding from the Violence Against Women Act to support prosecution and law enforcement efforts.

Marathon County is uniquely situated to provide education, treatment and accountability in domestic violence cases. As a community, it is up to all of us to educate ourselves on these issues to make our community safe and secure.

Michael Puerner is an assistant district attorney in Marathon County. His position is funded by the Violence Against Women Act and is focused on the prosecution of domestic violence crimes. He wrote this column as a member of the Marathon County Domestic Abuse Intervention Team, a coordinated effort of local service providers to address victim safety, community awareness and perpetrator accountability. For more information, call The Women’s Community at 715-842-5663.